in 2011, vladimir putin announced a scaled up version of the customs union, the usualan economic union. it began in 2015. it recognizes the free movement of people, products and services creating a sim similar to that of the eu. kyrgyz was urged to join. should they join? should they stay out? opinions at the bazaar are widely split. >> if kyrgyzstan joins, items would be able to move without restriction and it's possible some foreign traders would return to the bazaar. but it could also threaten the very foundation of dordoi's existence. kyrgyzstan's low customs duties would have to be adjusted to match those of other member states. the duties will almost double. dordoi will probably lose imports from china. >> translator: as the chair woman of dordoi bazaar's trade union, i oppose kyrgyzstan joining the eeu. that would be a huge blow to many merchants. 80% of dordoi's jobs are based on reexports. once we join up, we can no longer do that. it would be impossible, right? >> whether or not to join the eeu has been a question of life and death for the bazaar. the decision could cause hug